Why do background checks matter? One reason, among many, is because past behavior is often one of the best predictors of future behavior.

A client engaged HR Risk Mitigation LLC to screen one of its top producers because the employee was often running afoul of company policies and practices with a laissez-faire attitude that the rules did not apply to him. The background check uncovered a relatively recent criminal record for the employee – attempting to board a commercial airline with a large knife.

The company met with the employee to discuss his performance issues and informed the employee he was being placed on company probation.

Approximately a year later, after little or no improvement by the employee, the company had HR Risk Mitigation refresh, or update, the background check. HR Risk Mitigation found another criminal record filed since the last report – this time the employee was charged with possessing false or fraudulent government documents, namely a phony “official” parking placard to avoid receiving parking citations.

With a pattern emerging, it was now clear to the company that it had to act regarding the employee. His continued actions – that the rules do not apply to him – was unwanted behavior that could put the client at risk depending on the circumstances and severity of the next incident (that was likely to happen).

Background checks can reveal a myriad of adverse findings beyond just criminal records, such as liens, judgments, bankruptcy filings, civil litigation, and other adverse information. HR Risk Mitigation’s background checks help clients make fully informed decisions – not only on potential new hires, but existing personnel as well – to mitigate potential risks and liability.